A car crash caused significant structural damage to the Utah Animal Adoption Center in Sandy, Utah, on Sunday afternoon. Despite the impact, all staff and 16 animals escaped the incident without injuries.

Incident Details

The Sandy City Police Department reported the incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. A driver attempting an improper turn collided with another vehicle.

This initial collision caused the driver to lose control, resulting in their vehicle crashing into the animal shelter. The driver sustained minor injuries and did not require hospitalization. Occupants of the second vehicle involved were also unharmed.

Immediate Response and Relief

Jode Littlepage, Executive Director of the Utah Animal Adoption Center, described her initial reaction as “pure terror.” She was immediately concerned for the safety of the staff and animals.

Littlepage expressed relief upon arriving at the scene to find everyone safe. A volunteer had left the building just minutes before the crash, narrowly avoiding potential injury.

Animal Welfare

All 16 animals at the center are safe, though staff are monitoring them for signs of stress. The crash occurred near the cat housing area, and those cats were moved to safer locations within the building.

Recovery and Support

The facility remains operational while assessing the structural damage and planning repairs. The organization is accepting support from the community.

Updates on how to donate or provide physical assistance are available on the Utah Animal Adoption Center’s official Facebook page. The center reaffirms its commitment to animal care despite the damage.